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BERT’S BUZZ NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
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Gratitude in Action HOW A SIMPLE PRACTICE TRANSFORMED MY PERSPECTIVE
Thanksgiving is always a great time to reflect on gratitude, and this year, I find myself especially thankful for the practice of being grateful itself. Being grateful for gratitude might sound odd, but a decade ago, I began exploring how gratitude could alleviate those general feelings of anxiety and feeling down that we all experience. I discovered that these emotions cannot coexist with a mindset of gratitude. Gratitude is a choice, a deliberate decision to focus on the positives, even in the midst of challenges. If you deliberately feel gratitude, there is no room for other negative feelings. For me, this practice of gratitude goes beyond fleeting thoughts — each night, I write down what I am grateful for. Sometimes, it’s just a few words; other times, it’s several sentences about my day, my family, or my work. Over time, I’ve developed a habit of ending each day on a positive note, and I’ve realized how powerful this can be. It shifts my perspective, even on the toughest days. Growing up, I had the opportunity to live in several countries — Senegal, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Tunisia — before returning home to Albuquerque after each stay. Seeing poverty and suffering firsthand, the distended bellies of starving children my age, made me appreciate even the simplest things that we often take for granted in the U.S. One of those things is clean water. In many of the places I lived, access to clean water was not guaranteed. Here in the U.S., we turn on the tap without thinking about it. Water is a life-giving force, and I remind myself every day how lucky we are to have it so easily available. Beyond basic necessities, I am also grateful for something that often gets overlooked: the Rule of Law. Having traveled to countries where justice systems are less reliable, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the structure we have here in the U.S. Our legal system isn’t perfect, but it provides a level of security and predictability that is rare in much of the world. Contracts are upheld, agreements are honored, and if they aren’t, there are systems in place to make things right.
I’m grateful to be part of that system, working as an attorney to help people find justice. I take great pride in the work I do, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in my clients’ lives. It’s no coincidence that National Inspirational Role Models Month falls in the same month as Thanksgiving. I am deeply grateful for the incredible people who have inspired me. When I reflect on the role models I’m most thankful for, my wife and my parents are at the top of the list. My wife’s selflessness and unwavering care for others make her a true role model in every sense. My father’s passion, intellect, and love for life have been guiding lights, while my mother’s strength and musical talent continue to inspire me. The love and support each of these remarkable people have shown me has shaped my life in countless ways. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by other amazing people who are role models in their own right. From my colleagues at the firm to my friends at the judo club, I’m constantly inspired by those who give their all to help others. My children, in particular, teach me new and valuable lessons every day. There’s a saying in judo that even black belts can learn from white belts, and that couldn’t be truer. My kids’ perspectives remind me to stay curious and open to new ideas. As Thanksgiving approaches, I can’t help but think about the meaning of the word “company.” It’s derived from the Latin “com,” meaning “with,” and “panis” meaning “bread.” Essentially, “company” means “with bread” — a beautiful reminder that sharing a meal is about more than just food. It’s about coming together, breaking bread, and connecting with the people around us. Thanksgiving, with its focus on gratitude, togetherness, and a delicious meal, is the perfect time to do just that. I encourage everyone to take time to reflect on the people and experiences that make life meaningful. Gratitude, after all, is best celebrated when shared, whether at the dinner table or in a simple moment of reflection.
—Bert Parnall
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How to Keep Thanksgiving Drama-Free A Recipe for a Calm Thanksgiving
If politics come up, stay cool. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, politics will find their way into the conversation. When that happens, don’t panic. It’s okay to voice your opinion but remember: The goal is to keep things civil. One great way to do that is by staying curious. Instead of jumping into a debate, try saying something like, “That’s interesting; tell me more!” Listening to another person’s point of view, even if you disagree, shows respect and can diffuse tension before it starts. Drama? Stay silent and strong. Let’s be real — family drama can rear its head during the holidays, whether we like it or not. If you are in the middle of a family squabble, sometimes the best thing you can do is stay quiet. Silence, after all, can be your greatest strength. Refusing to fuel the fire might just help the drama fizzle out on its own. Keep it light, keep it fun. Thanksgiving is all about togetherness, gratitude, and enjoying each other’s company. So, keep things lighthearted! Share funny stories, play games, or even bring out a conversation jar filled with light and funny prompts to keep things moving in the right direction. And if all else fails, just remind everyone why you’re gathered around the table — to celebrate and give thanks. So, this Thanksgiving, let’s focus on what matters — good food, good company, and great memories. With a little bit of tact and a lot of humor, you can sidestep the holiday drama and keep your Thanksgiving fun, peaceful, and filled with joy.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and delicious food. But let’s be honest: It can also be a minefield of potential arguments. Whether it’s politics, family drama, or old grudges, the holiday feast can quickly take a turn for the worse if we’re not careful. No need to fear, though, because we have some practical advice to help you navigate those tricky conversations and keep your Thanksgiving table harmonious. Steer clear of politics (mostly). The golden rule for keeping things peaceful? Try not to bring up politics. Sure, it’s tempting, especially with so much going on in the world. But let’s face it: Nothing derails a dinner quite like a heated political debate. Instead, think about subjects that everyone can rally around. For example, everyone loves complaining about crazy drivers! Try throwing out a comment like, “Can you believe the drivers out there these days?” Chances are, everyone will jump in with their own driving horror stories, and suddenly, you’ve turned potential conflict into a shared laugh. Enjoy food, glorious food. One of the best ways to avoid contentious topics is to talk about something everyone loves: food! “What’s the secret to your perfect pie crust?” or “What’s the best restaurant you’ve tried recently?” These questions will surely lead to some mouthwatering stories — and keep the conversation light and cheerful. You might even pick up a few new recipes to try next year!
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SUDOKU
At Carnegie Hall, the concept of a concert has been reimagined with a delightful twist. Welcome to Well-Being Concerts, a series that entertains and soothes the soul. Launched in March 2024, these performances are designed to create a safe and relaxing place for the mind. Forget the traditional concert hall setting of rigid chairs and hushed whispers; these concerts invite you to settle down on cozy floor cushions. The environment is crafted to be as warm and welcoming as a friend’s living room, with soft, inviting lighting and fabrics draped to enhance the space’s coziness. Imagine a musical experience where you’re encouraged to breathe mindfully A Symphony of Support How Well-Being Concerts Are Boosting Mental Health
and connect genuinely with those around you — this is precisely what Carnegie Hall offers with its Well-Being Concerts.
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Sarah Johnson, director of Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute
Crunchy, Lemony Salmon
(WMI), explained the vision behind these gatherings: “Given everything that people are navigating in today’s world, we wanted to intentionally craft a communal musical experience to maximize the health benefits of attending a performance.” This innovative approach to concerts stems from the growing body of research, like the comprehensive 2019 World Health Organization report, that links music to reduced stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. The series, which included 16 Well-Being Concerts, catered to the general public and provided tailored experiences for specific groups such as health care workers, veterans, and individuals affected by the justice system. Instead of a traditional stage, performers and attendees share the same level, forming a circle that fosters a unique sense of community. The impact of these concerts goes beyond the event itself. Johnson’s team, along with strategic advisor Ian Koebner, is exploring ways to extend the calming influence of the music. Attendees may soon be able to access curated playlists and snippets of the performance after the concert, allowing them to relive the serene experience and carry the tranquility into their daily lives. These Well-Being Concerts at Carnegie Hall are more than just performances; they are a sanctuary in the city, a gentle reminder of the healing power of music and community. Hopefully, we will see many more concerts like these in the Big Apple and worldwide.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter • 3 garlic cloves, smashed • 3/4 cup buttery crackers (such as Ritz), crushed • 3/4 cup panko • 2 tsp minced fresh thyme • 2 tsp lemon zest • 1 tsp each black pepper and salt, divided • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper Inspired by FoodAndWine.com Ingredients Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
• 2 tbsp heavy cream • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 (3-lb) skin-on salmon fillet (1 1/4-inches thick)
2. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3. In a medium bowl, stir together crackers, panko, thyme, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. Add melted garlic butter and combine. Set aside. 4. In a small bowl, stir together cream and mustard; set aside. Drizzle oil in a heatproof baking dish and place fish, skin side down, in the center. Sprinkle with pepper and salt. Brush fish evenly with cream mixture. Top fish with cracker mixture, gently pressing into fish. 5. Bake for 5 minutes, then reduce temperature to 400 F. Bake until crumbs turn golden brown, 15–18 minutes. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1 2 3
The Global Lessons That Shape Bert’s Gratitude
Learn How to Handle Thanksgiving Drama with Grace
Take a Break!
Crunchy, Lemony Salmon
New Well-Being Concerts Highlight the Healing Power of Music
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Homemade Play-Doh Alternatives for Endless Kid Entertainment
Ordinary Ingredients, Extraordinary Fun
CLOUD DOUGH AND SLIME RECIPES
creating unique items using ingredients from around the house.
and 1 cup of cornstarch, and mix it all in a bowl. Once it becomes hard to mix, start kneading the dough with your hands until it’s smooth and cloud-like. That’s all there is to it. When your kids finish playing with their cloud dough, squeeze all the air from it and place it in an airtight container to ensure it maintains its form and stays workable. You can also replace the conditioner with yogurt if you’re worried about your little one trying to sneak a taste. Slime Want something a bit gooier? Then let’s make some slime! Start by combining one 4-ounce bottle of school glue with 2 tablespoons of contact lens solution. Then, add 1–2 cups of shaving cream, depending on how thick you want your slime. Knead it together until it’s no longer sticky, and you’re good to go!
Nothing is better than spending an afternoon playing with your kids and enjoying their company. However, finding a game or activity that keeps their attention and focus can be challenging. That’s when we have to get creative to find something fun and new for our kids. One solution that keeps kids engaged is
We’re not talking about the standard arts and crafts here! Younger kids love playing with Play-Doh, but you don’t have to go to the store to pick it up. You can make a few different versions with everyday household items. Your kids will love creating and playing with the dough. Here are a few options you can try the next time your kids want something to do. Just remember to supervise your kids during these activities! Cloud Dough If you want to try a soft and fluffy alternative to Play-Doh, you’ll love creating cloud dough. You’ll need an unscented hair conditioner or one with a scent your children enjoy, food coloring, and cornstarch. Combine a half cup of conditioner, 4 drops of food coloring,
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